Poultry meatloaf

Bird drob is a traditional dish, savory and full of flavor, that brings together the simplest ingredients in a delicious and comforting way. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this drob is perfect for festive meals or family gatherings. Additionally, it is a recipe that can be adapted according to individual preferences, making it an excellent way to utilize leftover poultry and vegetables.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast or half the bones from turkey thighs (make sure the bones have pieces of meat on them)
- Bones from a quarter of turkey (with meat on them)
- 1 turkey neck
- Soup vegetables: 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 parsley root, 1 celery root, parsley leaves
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 4 raw eggs
- 2 hard-boiled eggs
- Salt
- Pepper
- Thyme
- A pinch of Ras-el-hanout (a blend of Eastern spices: cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and paprika)

Instructions

1. Preparing the soup
Start by washing the meat and bones thoroughly. Place them in a large pot and add cold water to cover. Bring to a boil and skim off any impurities from the surface. After skimming, add the chopped vegetables: onion, carrot, parsley, celery, and parsley leaves. Boil the mixture for at least an hour, until the meat becomes tender and juicy. This step is essential for obtaining a rich and flavorful base for the drob.

2. Preparing the onion
In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until golden. This will add a sweet and savory flavor to the drob. Once the onion is ready, let it cool.

3. Shredding the meat
After the meat has boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, chop the meat into small pieces, being careful to remove the bones.

4. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chopped meat, sautéed onion, chopped green onions, crushed garlic, and well-beaten raw eggs. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and a pinch of Ras-el-hanout for an exotic flavor. Mix all the ingredients well until combined.

5. Assembling the drob
Grease a loaf pan with oil. Place half of the meat mixture in the pan, lay the two hard-boiled eggs along the length, and top with the remaining meat mixture. Make sure the eggs are well covered.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the drob for about 40 minutes or until golden and firm to the touch. A trick to check if it’s cooked is to insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the drob is ready.

7. Serving
Let the drob cool slightly in the pan, then carefully remove it. You can serve it warm or cold, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or pickles. It slices easily and presents beautifully on a platter.

Practical tips

- Meatless version: You can adapt this recipe for a vegetarian version by replacing the meat with finely chopped mushrooms or vegetables, adding some tofu for protein.
- Seasoning: The flavor of the drob can be enhanced by adding other spices, such as nutmeg or marjoram, according to your preferences.
- Alternative serving: You can serve the drob with a yogurt sauce with dill for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional information

Bird drob is an excellent source of protein due to the poultry and eggs. Depending on the ingredients used, it can contain about 250-300 calories per serving, making it a healthy and filling choice. The added vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish an excellent option for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! The drob can be made with duck, goose, or even pork, depending on your preferences.

How can I store the drob?
It can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

What drinks pair well with drob?
A dry white wine or a light beer pairs perfectly with the drob. If you prefer, you can also opt for green tea or fresh lemonade.

Bird drob is more than just a dish; it’s a combination of flavors and traditions that will delight anyone who tastes it. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, each bite will bring a smile to your face and those of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!